Metabolic Syndrome among Adults Undergoing First-Time Comprehensive Health Screening
Keywords:
Metabolic Syndrome, Health Screening, HDL-C, Triglycerides, Abdominal obesity, VietnamAbstract
Background and aims: Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is characterized by central obesity, dyslipidemia, hypertension, and disorders of glucose metabolism. MetS increases the risk of type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease. This study aimed to estimate the prevalence of MetS and identify associated factors in adults undergoing their first comprehensive health screening at the Can Tho International Stroke Service Center, Can Tho City, Vietnam, from January to December 2025.
Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among adults having their first comprehensive health check-up. MetS was defined according to the National Cholesterol Education Program - Third Adult Treatment Panel (NCEP-ATP III) criteria, with adjustments for Asian waist circumference. Demographic, anthropometric, and biochemical variables associated with MetS were analyzed using logistic regression, with statistical significance set at p < 0.05.
Results: The prevalence of MetS was 35.6% (95% CI: 31.5–39.9). Individuals with MetS were more likely to be older, male, have a higher BMI, elevated blood pressure, adverse lipid profiles, and a greater intake of salt, sugar, and fat-rich foods (p < 0.05). Multivariable analysis identified age, sex, elevated BMI, increased triglycerides, low HDL cholesterol, and higher glucose levels as the strongest predictors of MetS (p < 0.05).
Conclusions: More than one-third of adults undergoing their first comprehensive health checkup are diagnosed with Mets, highlighting the potential burden of previously unrecognized metabolic cardiovascular risk. This emphasizes the necessity of early detection and targeted lifestyle interventions in preventive healthcare settings.
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